WildChina

WildChina is a China-focused travel company that designs private and small-group trips across the country, with offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Yangshuo, Huizhou and Hong Kong. Its Shanghai office is at SIP, 1318 North Sichuan Road in Hongkou. In the city it offers guided walks and private tours on request.

Its signature Shanghai walk is Secrets of the Former French Concession, a guided tour of about three hours that covers five to seven kilometres at a brisk pace. It starts at 9.30am at Fuxing Park, at the corner of Fuxing Road and Chongqing Road, and groups are limited to ten guests. A local guide leads the walk, and a map of Shanghai and water are included. Transport to and from the start and end points, insurance and personal expenses are not. The walk runs by request, and private versions or other dates can be arranged.

The French Concession walk is a good way to get your bearings in the area with a local guide before exploring independently. With offices across the country, the company can also link a Shanghai stay with travel to other regions.

WildChina suits travellers who prefer a guide-led, small-group or private experience over a large coach tour, including families, couples and first-time visitors to China. Because tours are arranged on request, contact the company well ahead of your dates. Wear comfortable shoes for the walking tours, as the pace is brisk and the distance is significant.

Insurance is not included in the walk, so check that your own travel policy covers it, and plan your own transport to Fuxing Park and back from the finish. Fuxing Park is also home to the INS complex, where Sober Company has its bar, if you want to return in the evening. Travellers calling from the United States can use the company's toll-free number, +1 888 902 8808, and the website carries articles on its work, including Mei Zhang leading a Smithsonian tour in 2010 and a 2018 shortlisting for the PURE Awards.

Bookings and enquiries go through the company's website and its published email address, and the main China phone line is in Beijing. Confirm the route and meeting point with the team when you book.